HIV/AIDS
Tanzania has approximately 1.7 million people living with HIV. With antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV is now a manageable chronic condition.
Always confirm diagnosis and treatment with a qualified health professional.
Compiled from public health references including the CDC, Mayo Clinic, WebMD, the World Health Organization, and the Tanzania Ministry of Health.
Overview
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, leading to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) if untreated. Tanzania's adult HIV prevalence is approximately 4.7%, with higher rates in southern highland and lake regions. Free HIV testing and ART are available at all public health facilities.
Common Symptoms
Acute phase (2–4 weeks after infection):
- Fever, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes
- Rash, muscle aches, fatigue
Chronic/AIDS phase (if untreated):
- Rapid weight loss
- Recurring infections (TB, pneumonia, fungal)
- Persistent diarrhoea
- Night sweats
Treatment
Antiretroviral therapy (ART) — taken daily for life — suppresses the virus to undetectable levels, preventing transmission and allowing a normal life expectancy.
- Free ART at all government facilities under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP)
- Start treatment as early as possible after diagnosis
- Viral load monitoring every 6–12 months
- U=U: Undetectable = Untransmittable
Prevention
- Use condoms consistently
- Get tested regularly (free at all public facilities)
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) for high-risk individuals
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours of potential exposure
- Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) programme for pregnant women
Cost & NHIF Coverage
Public facilities: HIV testing, counselling, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) are free at all public facilities under the National AIDS Control Programme (NACP).
NHIF: Covers related consultations, CD4/viral load monitoring, and opportunistic infection treatment at accredited facilities.
Private facilities: A confidential test privately runs TZS 10,000–25,000; ART is still best accessed through the free public programme regardless of where you test.
Estimated ranges — actual cost varies by facility. Confirm with reception and check your insurer's coverage before treatment.
Where to Get Care
Confirm with reception that the facility treats this condition and that your insurer is accepted before visiting.